Local hero set to start half marathon

LOCAL hero Chris Smith is set to start The Spire Healthcare English Half Marathon at Victoria Park this Sunday at 9am.
Chris, aged 49, won the local hero competition after being nominated by his friend for the inspiring way he has overcome ongoing health problems to become capable of running marathons and triathlons.
Chris (pictured in training) was diagnosed with a severe and degenerative spinal condition back in 2001, and because of mobility problems put on weight and stopped excercising.
But in 2008 he started to turn his life around. He took up yoga which helped his back problems, overcame his fear of water and learned to swim aged 46 with the help and encouragement of staff at Penketh swimming pool.
Chris continued to build up his health and fitness until he got to the level he is still at now – competing in marathon and triathlon level challenges.
He was one of a large number of nominees put forward but his remarkable achievements meant he really stood out from the crowd. Chris will kick off the race, with around 2,000 runners participating, including the council’s chief executive, Diana Terris who is taking part for the third year in a row.
The day promises to be not just a great race but a fun day out for all the family with a range of activities including Zumba, mini Olympics, rowing, a shoopla, a speed run and a Voxur.
Mike James, race director, said: “This year’s race is going to be the best yet. We are really delighted that local hero winner, Chris Smith, will be kicking things off by opening the event. He really is an inspiration. In previous years the people of Warrington have turned out to make the atmosphere great for runners and we hope this year will be no exception. We hope residents will be out in force not only to cheer on participants but to enjoy the range of fun activities that will be on offer too.”
Chris said: ” I was in Los Angeles, having just completed a swim from Alcatraz over to San Francisco when I received the email telling me I had won the ‘Local Hero’ competition to become the official starter for the Spire Healthcare English Half Marathon. It is an honour to be chosen to start the race and I am delighted to be opening this great event on Sunday.’
Meanwhile Warrington Council’s Chief Executive Diana Terris, added: ” I’m really looking forward to taking part in this year’s race again on behalf of the Tim Parry Johnathan Ball Foundation for Peace.
The English Half Marathon is a great event and we’re proud to have it here in Warrington. I’d like to wish all the runners the best of luck for the race.”
Entries for Sunday’s race are still open online at www.englishhalf.co.uk and on the day entry will be available at £34.